I am a fangirl first and foremost. Between working the digital media side of live events to sneaking my way to the front to the pit on my own, I’ve mastered the art of packing the perfect concert bag to ensure I’m prepared for anything and everything. Whether you’re headed to a local show or a multi-night run of your favorite artist (in this case, Hanson’s two-night run in Nashville), here’s a guide to what I always bring to ensure an unforgettable night.
The Concert Bag
Let’s start with the bag itself. The real MVP move is ensuring it meets the venue’s bag policy. Always double-check the policy because no two venues are alike. Nothing derails a night of fangirling faster than being told your bag is too big or not transparent enough. My go-to is a small clear backpack that meets most venue bag policies. A small backpack is perfect for stashing everything you need while also leaving room for merch (because no one wants to juggle a merch bag all night). Bonus points if your bag has some character! Mine are still sports stickers and clearance tags from past shows, which feel like a mini time capsule of my concert adventures. Just make sure security can still see inside of it.
What’s Inside? Let’s Dive In!
1. Selfie Ring Light
This little gadget is a lifesaver—not for the show itself (please don’t be that person blinding everyone with your ring light mid-song), but for snapping pre-show selfies with your friends or finding something you dropped in a dimly lit venue. Bonus: It saves your phone battery for more important things, like taking 87 blurry pictures and 3 good ones of the band.
2. Chapstick
Concerts are dry. My lips deserve hydration while I’m belting out every lyric.
3. Wallet
The essentials: ID, credit cards, and maybe some cash for merch or drinks. I strongly recommend a wallet that can double as a bag in case you have to ditch your bigger bag at the gate.
4. Koozies
I love picking up event-specific koozies, but I also bring my own, just in case. It’s the little things that elevate your concert drink experience. Plus, nobody wants wet hands.
5. Notebook and Pen
Call me old-school, but I always have a notebook and pen. Whether I’m jotting down setlists, random thoughts, or fangirl doodles, they’re a staple in my bag.
6. Lens Wipes
This is for clear phone camera lenses and even clearer views of the band. Pro tip: clean your lens before snapping pictures—it makes a world of difference. Wipe off your front AND back cameras.
7. Hand Sanitizer
Concerts are fun but also gross. Enough said.
8. Portable Charger
This old-school Apple Charge Brick has been my trusty companion for many shows. It’s a must-have to ensure my phone lasts through the night (and all my Instagram Stories).
9. Friendship Bracelets
Even if you're not a Swifty, you kinda gotta love the tradable nature of friendship bracelets. I enjoy making them for myself and concert buddies. They make for great accessories for detailed shots and are a great way to make some friends; especially with bar staff.
10. Extra Hair Tie
Concert venues get hot. At some point, my hair is going up. Bring more than you think you’ll need.
11. Snacks
Because hunger waits for no fangirl, and you can’t cheer with a growling stomach. I’ll usually stash something easy to carry, like granola bars or leftover Halloween candy.
12. Cough Drops
Even if it’s an acoustic show, I’m probably gonna end up scream singing. My vocal cords need all the support they can get.
13. Sharpie
You never know when you might need it—autographs, notes, helping out a fellow fangirl. It’s the Swiss Army knife of concert accessories. Just be prepared to part ways with it if need be.
Ready to Rock
And that’s my bag, perfectly packed for any concert. Whether singing along in the front row or hanging in the back soaking up the vibes, being prepared makes every show more enjoyable.
So, what’s in your concert bag? Let me know in the comments below—I’m always looking for new ideas to add to mine!
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